What Really Happened to Humpty by Jeanie Franz Ransom

Did Humpty really fall off that wall? Or was he pushed? It's up to Joe Dumpty to find out.

Charlesbridge publishes the best children's books. There's something for everyone, whether it's poking fun at Mother Goose rhymes or teaching a child facts about Monks illustrating books. I choose this one for review (thanks for a copy, Charlesbridge) because I had previously read a children's book entitled "The True Story of the Three Little Pigs" where the wolf was innocent (or say he says). This children's picture book appeared to be written in the same tongue-in-cheek form.

Stephen Axelsen illustrations add to "hard-boiled" feel of the story as Joe Friday, oops, that's Joe Dumpty, goes about his investigation.

There are corny lines in the story such as: "At least he landed sunny-side up." Ms. Ransom uses a whole batch of nursery rhyme characters such as: Miss Muffet, the three little pigs, Little Bo Peep, and more.

I'd suggest this for reading for ages 6-9. If you use it for reading aloud, have the children tell the original nursery rhymes after you're through with the story. This is a good humorous read that should make your child smile.

This book is currently available at your local bookstore - and you won't have read a nursery rhyme like this before...